Frame shrinkage<\/strong> \u201cIf there are no gaps between the siding and the window system, everything can get kind of bound up,\u201d said Kwon. \u201cWindows can also be displaced and may not close all the way if the operable sash is on top of the frame.\u201d<\/p>\n Failure to isolate cladding systems from windows<\/strong> Sometimes through-wall flashing is used, but it needs to be well supported. \u201cIf the membrane is not supported, there will be wrinkles and holes and ways for water to get past it,\u201d said Kwon. \u201cThis can lead to trapped moisture, meaning corrosion and leakage. You can avoid this with clips to avoid penetrating that through-wall flashing.\u201d<\/p>\n Lack of an air\/water barrier<\/strong> Effects of the construction sequence<\/strong><\/p>\n Yang discussed two more sections of the presentation, starting with the importance of knowing the effects of the sequence of construction. Understanding adjacent systems and material compatibility can help to avoid problems down the road, said Yang. For example, the sealant used must be compatible with the liquid applied membrane and flashing in a project.<\/p>\n \u201cWe see a lot of prefabricated exterior insulation finishing systems in windows being used,\u201d said Yang. \u201cThese require a two-stage sealant so this can\u2019t be missed.\u201d<\/p>\n Placement of insulation<\/strong>![\"-\"](\"https:\/\/www.canadiancontractor.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/FGIA_2025Fall_Resid_HomeWithWrap-630x421.jpg\")
Participants at the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance Fall Conference heard from two legal experts about a range of unforced errors that can take place in construction \u2013 but can also be prevented. \u201cFrom the Field \u2013 Avoidable failures and misconceptions in the residential market\u201d was presented by Yuhan Yang of Associate III, and Renae Kwon, associate principal with Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates.<\/a> Together, the pair covered unaccommodated shrinkage of wood frames in construction; failure to isolate cladding systems from a window; a lack of an air\/water barrier in a window system; the effects of the construction sequence; and the importance of insulation placement in residential construction.<\/p>\n
Kwon shared details about a common issue: wood frame shrinkage. This can impact operable windows as well as expansive claddings, she said. \u201cThe moisture content is in the wood,\u201d explained Kwon. \u201cDuring construction, that content might be higher. But once it\u2019s complete, it should be lower in that interior.\u201d To account for this, one must allow for movement due to wood frame shrinkage. \u201cIt can impact our window systems,\u201d she said. \u201cIf not accommodated for, it can lead to bowing.\u201d The most movement is at the top of the building, where there is the most relative shrinkage.<\/p>\n
A cavity seal prevents water within the cavity from reaching the window frame, said Kwon. \u201cYou can add an air water barrier onto the aluminum cladding or the window system and close it with a sheet metal cover providing UV protection,\u201d said Kwon. \u201cWith wood windows in brick masonry, or a metal panning system, collect and drain that water past the cladding system.\u201d<\/p>\n
Last, Kwon discussed why it\u2019s necessary to understand sill detailing, sheathing with integral air\/water barriers and nailing flanges to avoid window leakage over time. \u201cWith residential work, you can use home wraps and detail it to accommodate the window system and your air\/water barrier,\u201d said Kwon.<\/p>\n
Optimal placement of insulation is critical, said Yang. There must be a heating source at the window to prevent condensation. \u201cPlacement of the window and insulation are important,\u201d she said. \u201cAll of this can be avoided by collaborating early on.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n